Despite current restrictions, festive fundraisers will still have the chance to support local children and families this Christmas with the return of a charity’s famous fundraising event.

‘Tis the season as Acorns Children’s Hospice launches Santa’s Star Dash – a brand-new free virtual challenge guaranteed to get participants into the spirit and raise vital funds towards the charity’s care for life limited and life threatened children.

Running from 1 to 14 December, Acorns is calling on the public to ‘help Santa save Christmas’ and run, walk or jog their own 1, 5 and 12km routes, clocking up enough miles (4,173km to be exact) to return the North Star to the North Pole so it can guide Santa as he delivers all of his presents on Christmas Eve. Kate McMahon, Events Coordinator at Acorns, said:

“Our big festive fundraiser has always been one of our best loved events and while it’s disappointing we can’t all come together in events like we have in previous years, you can still support local children and families virtually.

“We understand that times are tough, so to help spread some cheer, entry to this event is free. Instead we’re asking participants to give a gift to the children at Acorns by fundraising.”

After selecting their preferred distance, participants can complete the challenge all in one go or over several days. Those who raise £10 will receive a Santa outfit, with elf costumes for little ones, a medal and a certificate from Santa himself. Kate added:

“We’ll be dashing through the snow, sunshine, or everything in-between on 1 December. But don’t worry if you can’t join us on this day, you have until the 14 December to complete your challenge.

“So please, pull on your winter warmers, join Santa’s Star Dash and help us continue our care for some of the most vulnerable children and families in our community.”

Acorns has been at the forefront in the battle against coronavirus, supporting some of the most vulnerable families as well as the wider emergency response of the NHS and social care system.

It costs the charity, which cares for families from across the West Midlands, almost £10 million every year to continue – the bulk of which comes from donations and fundraising.

To sign up to Santa’s Star Dash or for more information, visit acorns.org.uk/santastardash.